What Is CBD and Why Is It Now So Popular?

Not since Pokemon Go! or fidget spinners has something created as much buzz as CBD is currently generating. The popularity of CBD has skyrocketed in the last few years, making industry giants like Coca-Cola take notice and even consider joining the industry. Stigmatized as a form of recreational drug up until a few years ago, CBD can now be found everywhere from online retailers to wellness stores and spas.

But, what makes CBD so special? And why is it becoming so popular now? Here are six reasons CBD products are taking over the market:

Range of Benefits

The primary reason CBD has gained significant notoriety is its extensive range of medicinal benefits. CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can be an effective remedy for many ailments and symptoms related to certain conditions. Research – along with thousands of personal stories – suggests CBD can be used to treat anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, and seizures, among other conditions.

Legality

The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) was passed in 1970 to criminalize drugs like marijuana; however, the act outlawed all strains of cannabis – including hemp, which is harmless.

It wasn’t until 2014 that laws surrounding hemp began to change. The Agricultural Act of 2014 partially legalized the cultivation and consumption of hemp. The act gave states the power to establish hemp programs and monitor the industry’s growth, research, and marketing. Since then, hemp has become available nationwide with states passing progressive laws allowing for the industrial cultivation and commercialization of hemp and hemp-derived products like CBD.

Wider Availability

The legalization of hemp in 2014 opened the doors for new industries specializing in hemp-derived products like CBD. As hemp became more available across the country, new brands started to pop up, offering CBD products of all varieties and flavors. Currently, CBD is a $1 billion industry, and it is expected to reach $22 billion in the next four years.

Access to Information

As access to CBD has increased, more people have begun to experience all the benefits that CBD has to offer. The growth of social media and forums dedicated to specific medical conditions and treatments have given users a platform to share their experiences with CBD products, informing and inspiring others to try CBD.

Versatility

One major factor that is often very influential when considering CBD is its versatility. Not only can CBD products help with a number of conditions, but many brands offer products in different shapes, flavors, and dosages. From CBD gummies to CBD coffee, users have dozens of options to choose from when buying CBD, and they are all equally effective.

Safer Alternative

Perhaps the most important reason CBD is growing in the market is that it offers a safer alternative to conventional pharmaceutical medications. Unlike most prescription and over-the-counter meds, CBD produces no side effects. Additionally, CBD has no habit-forming properties, meaning it will not cause addiction problems.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for information and educational purposes only and is not intended to reflect the views of the publication.